The 2024 Atomic Maven 86 is a more kindhearted, gentle, and approachable version of the Maven 86 C. For those looking for a precise yet relaxing ski for any snow condition, the Maven 86 delivers. By sticking to the basics and keeping the construction to the essentials, a great balance of effortless performance and stability is found. Going unchanged for 2024, this is the third iteration of the 86 which shows that its design is tried and true. Separating itself from the other Mavens, the 86 will not be reinforced with carbon fiber making it a bit more supple and easy going. Making it a great choice for casual skiers that are not looking to break the sound barrier. Even without the use of carbon, the Maven 86 provides a good amount of stability for those firm snow days. Softer than the closely related 86 C, yet stiffer than the Bent, the Maven 86 sits in a sweet spot of versatility that many skiers of all ability levels are looking for.

The Maven 86 gets a slightly different construction than the other closely related Mavens. Similarities include Atomic’s OMatic Core, DuraCap Sidewall, and HRZN Tech. The difference is that the 86 will not have Atomic’s Carbon backbone, which is in the 86 C’s construction. The OMatic Core consists of a poplar wood core with 2 triaxial fiberglass laminates. The poplar core provides energy and a consistent flex pattern, with the fiberglass laminates contributing dampening properties and some torsional stiffness. These materials are extremely light weight, coming in at 1450 grams for the 169cm length, which allows the ski to be extremely maneuverable and playful without sacrificing too much stability. However, without any carbon or metal laminates, the Maven 86 will not have as much edge grip or stability as the Carbon reinforced Maven’s. Instead, the 86 is more geared towards intermediate skiers who are looking for a more relaxed ride where the skis are not going to feel overpowered. Or perhaps for people who are in search of a more directional, light weight touring ski. HRZN Tech tips help to increase floatation in soft snow as surface area increases without increasing the physical width of the tips.

Sharing the same mold and dimensions as the 86 C, the 86 will have an overall directional profile and shape. The profile consists of 15% tip rocker, 75% camber, and 10% tail rocker. The rockered tips and tails make for a playful ski that is not too catchy, while the camber provides edge grip and energy at the exits of your turns. In terms of the side, the Maven 86 has a forebody width of 121.5mm, a waist width of 87mm, and a tail width of 105mm. The sidecut generates a turn radius of 15.5 meters at the 161cm length, which is relatively short for an all-mountain ski. However, it is indicative of how the ski likes to be skied at a moderate pace with control and proper technique being the focus.

Lady skiers who are looking for an extremely versatile, lightweight, and gentle all-mountain ski will be happy to have the 2024 Atomic Maven 86 beneath their feet. Appealing to a wide range of ability levels, the Maven is an approachable option for those that don’t necessarily need the burliest ski out there. Best for intermediate skiers looking to hone their technique, the Maven 86 can make for a great daily driver or a lightweight directional touring ski that has the ability to take you anywhere you want to go.